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AN INQUIRY into predatory behaviour by tow truck ­cowboys who turned private parking lots into cash cows will follow the money trail to see who profited from their ­operation.

The State Government has confirmed the three-month independent probe led by retired judge Michael Forde will “explore the commercial arrangements for private property towing ... and the possible influence arrangements may have in encouraging predatory practices”.

The Central Brunswick property at 421 Brunswick St in Fortitude Valley where the property owner was allegedly paid $50 for every car towed from the site.

It comes as a former landlord of an inner-city retail complex revealed an arrangement in which controversial tow company Elite Security & Parking Enforcement paid the property owner $50 for each car towed from the site.

The Sunday Mail this month revealed the car park for the Central Brunswick convenience centre at 421 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley, used covert “spotters” who would tip off an awaiting tow-truck driver in as little as 10 minutes should a motorist park there and leave.

Some of those towed had parked then crossed the road to an identically named retail and dining complex. They were forced to pay up to $1000 to get their cars back.